How to Find Caterpillars in the Field:Look for Ants Tending Caterpillars. Tending ants can be very conspicuous as you search for larvae. Larvae can be abundant and easy to find in situations where the adults fly well especially around mountain hilltops in association with Lupinus argenteus and Lupinus sericeus. (See this video to learn more about ants tending silvery blue caterpillars on Lupinus sericeus.)

Caterpillar setups:Open terrariums; Twin Cup Method.--Because cannibalism is a concern with this and other lycaenid larvae, it is best to separate them out either in a open terrarium setup, or using the twin cup method. It is more work; but, you gain more control by separating out larvae into small twin cups as shown on this photo.